Allergic rhinitis
What is allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by the immune system reacting to substances that have no adverse effect on healthy people. These substances, known as allergens (pollen, dust mites, animal epithelia, fungi, etc.) trigger symptoms such as sneezing, nasal itching, congestion and a runny nose.
Although many people confuse it with a cold, allergic rhinitis is not infectious and can be seasonal or persistent, significantly reducing quality of life if not treated correctly.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis
Linked to plant pollination, it usually occurs in spring or summer. Pollen from grasses, trees, or weeds is the main trigger.
Persistent allergic rhinitis
Its symptoms persist all year round. It is associated with indoor allergens such as house dust mites, mould, pets or even certain occupational allergens.
Most common symptoms
Symptoms may vary in severity and frequency depending on the individual, the allergen involved, and the level of exposure. The most common symptoms are:
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Frequent sneezing fits, especially in the mornings.
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Itching of the nose, eyes and sometimes the roof of the mouth or throat.
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Clear, watery nasal discharge (rhinorrhoea).
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Nasal obstruction, a feeling of a blocked nose.
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Postnatal drip (feeling of mucus running down the throat).
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Decreased sense of smell.
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Red, watery and itchy eyes when combined with allergic conjunctivitis.
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Fatigue, drowsiness or difficulty sleeping, due to nasal obstruction.
In many cases, these symptoms occur continuously or recur at the same time every year.
Who does allergic rhinitis affect?
Allergic rhinitis can develop at any age, although it usually appears in childhood or adolescence. It affects people of all ages, genders and in all settings, and it has become increasingly common in recent decades, especially in urban areas, due to pollution, changes in lifestyle and exposure to new allergens.
It is estimated that between 20% and 30% of the world’s population suffers from allergic rhinitis, one of the most common allergic diseases. Furthermore, in many people it exists alongside other conditions such as asthma, allergic conjunctivitis or atopic dermatitis.
Treatments for allergic rhinitis
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Check daily pollen levels if you have a seasonal allergy.
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Keep windows closed during peak pollen hours.
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Wear sunglasses to reduce eye contact with allergens.
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Change your clothes and shower when you get home if you have been outside.
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Avoid smoking and smoky or polluted environments, as they worsen the symptoms.
Handy tips for people with allergic rhinitis
- Check daily pollen levels if you have a seasonal allergy.
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Keep windows closed during peak pollen hours.
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Wear sunglasses to reduce eye contact with allergens.
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Change your clothes and shower when you get home if you have been outside.
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Avoid smoking and smoky or polluted environments, as they worsen the symptoms.
